The Richmond SPCA is always on the lookout for adopters eager to open their hearts and homes to orphaned pets, and recently the organization has taken steps to ensure that senior adopters have a fair shot at finding their perfect match. Since expanding its Seniors for Seniors program last year the RSPCA has placed 10 pets with senior adopters. A mix of cats and dogs, all of these pets share the unique distinction of being seniors themselves.

The Seniors for Seniors program considers any dog or cat over the age of five a senior pet. These pets are eligible for adoption at a discounted rate of $50, so long as the adopter is age 65 or older. Once adopted the pets receive a free "welcome home" kit complete with food and water bowls, toys, a litter box if a cat, and a collar and leash if a dog. All of this is done in keeping with the program’s stated aim of making the benefits of pet ownership readily available to the senior members of the community, as well as the orphaned cats and dogs often overlooked simply because of their age. The result is a companionship RSPCA adoption counselors view as a win-win for owner and pet.

According to RSPCA Community Relations Manager Tabitha Hanes, "Adopting a mature pet often makes for a smoother adjustment to a new home because their personality is fully developed." Many of the pets are already housetrained and mannerly, and some of the dogs even know a few basic tricks. Unlike adopters of a puppies or kittens. those adopting senior pets can be sure of what to expect. Additionally recent studies have shown that seniors who own pets experience numerous health benefits and an improved quality of life.

In her new book, "The 50+ Dog Owner," Mary Jane Checchi writes that researchers have found "the human-canine bond can reduce stress, lower cholesterol, and stimulate exercise" among other benefits. Seniors with pets tend to have a more positive outlook on life. A senior looking to adopt a pet would be wise to adopt a more mature, calmer animal. Yet calmer certainly does not mean lacking in personality. You need not look any further than the dogs and cats at the RSPCA to see that.

This past March, Don Dale adopted his cat, Cassie, through the Seniors for Seniors program. Her playful demeanor and unique markings set her apart from the other cats up for adoption in Dale’s mind, and upon getting her home the two quickly bonded. Dale describes Cassie as a "true stealth cat" because of her frequent disappearing acts, but once she is in his lap she is quite content to stay there.

Cassie’s case is a special one. Since she was transferred from the Chesterfield animal shelter to the RSPCA, she has had to stay on antibiotics for what was thought to be a mild upper respiratory infection. A few antibiotics, a stay at the hospital, and 10 days worth of shots later, and the vet is still miffed as to what is causing Cassie to sneeze frequently. An upcoming sinus culture will hopefully yield an answer. Cassie has remained a trooper throughout the whole ordeal, as has her owner, who does not regret his decision to adopt through the Seniors for Seniors program. Says Dale, "She’s a sweetheart, and I’m going to try to give her the best care I can afford. She deserves that and more."

For any interested dog-lovers, Seniors for Seniors is currently trying to find a home for Rina, a 5-year-old coonhound mix. A compassionate canine, she is fond of leisurely strolls and feels more at home in the company of adults. Her well-mannered nature shows in her ability to greet you with her paw, and unlike most dogs I know she will pass on a treat if she thinks it might go to her hips. After Rina’s walk, she likes to nap but only after making sure her blankets are in proper order. Such a character would be a wonderful addition to any 50 plusser’s home.

If you fancy yourself more of the feline persuasion, you are still in luck. Kathy is an 8-year-old longhaired cat with an alluring black coat. She does not put up a fuss when held and will roll on her back for a tummy rub, even around complete strangers. Her affection knows no bounds, as she will snuggle up to dogs if she can manage it. This makes her a fine fit if you already have a pooch at home. I am told she is the favorite around the RSPCA, so while they hope she finds a home they will be sad to see her go.

Like all RSPCA pets, Rina and Kathy have been spayed, vaccinated, and implanted with a microchip for permanent identification purposes. While they have yet to find a lasting family other RSPCA pets have been fortunate enough to find homes.

The RSPCA’s Seniors for Seniors program seeks to spark enduring human-canine and human-feline relationships, like the one between Don Dale and Cassie, everyday.

Tabitha Hanes encourages those seniors who are on the fence about adopting a senior pet to pay a visit to the Robins-Starr Humane Center and spend some time getting to know some of the dogs and cats in their care.

Pets that qualify for Seniors for Seniors special adoption are clearly labeled, and adoption counselors are there to help potential adopters identify their perfect match and answer all questions regarding a pet’s background and special needs.

Seniors for Seniors also provides searchable databases of pet-friendly housing and retirement communities in the Greater Richmond area online, at www.richmondspca.org/petfriendly.

Hanes notes that when a senior pet finds a home "not only does the adopter get a lifetime of unconditional love, but when a pet in our care is adopted we are able to save the life of another pet in great need in our community." I can’t imagine a much better feeling. FP